“Every person above the ordinary has a certain mission that they are called to fulfill.”
- August 28, 1749 – March 22, 1832
- German
- Poet, playwright, novelist, philosopher, politician
- His literary works “Faust” and “The Sorrows of Young Werther” had a major impact on world literature.
Quote
“Every person above the ordinary has a certain mission that they are called to fulfill.”
Explanation
Goethe suggests that those who are not content with the ordinary or average life are often driven by a deeper sense of purpose or a mission they are meant to fulfill. This “mission” is a calling, a personal responsibility or destiny that elevates them above the common path and guides them to make a unique contribution to the world. Whether this mission is expressed through art, leadership, service, or any other form of achievement, those with a sense of purpose feel compelled to pursue it. The idea is that those with extraordinary qualities or abilities are often marked by a sense of greater responsibility and are meant to contribute something meaningful to society.
Historically, this idea resonates with the philosophical and spiritual view that individuals are born with a purpose that goes beyond personal success or material gain. During the Romantic period, there was a strong belief in the uniqueness of the individual and the importance of self-actualization. Thinkers and artists believed that people with extraordinary talents or insights were often called to express those gifts in service to something greater than themselves. Goethe himself, with his multifaceted talents as a writer, scientist, and philosopher, exemplified this belief in the individual mission.
In modern contexts, this idea is relevant in discussions of personal development and leadership. Many people today feel that they have a calling—whether in their career, relationships, or community service—that motivates them to go beyond the ordinary. This sense of mission often drives people to excel in their fields and contribute in ways that align with their values and passions. For example, many leaders, artists, and entrepreneurs often feel that their work is not just a job or a hobby, but a deeper purpose that they are meant to fulfill.
Goethe’s words remind us that those with extraordinary potential are often marked by a greater sense of purpose, a mission that calls them to contribute something meaningful to the world. By recognizing and embracing this mission, individuals can fulfill their highest potential and make a lasting impact.
